You know what? Many seem to think (or hope) that life should invariably have happy endings. I.e., people go through this or that repetitive problem or even trauma, and sometimes for a long period of time, and right from childhood; but then things come blessedly right, and ain’t it all wunnerful, wunnerful, as Mr. Welk might have said!

Where do we get this widespread desire for happy endings? Well I guess the decent-hearted among us simply want the best for others, especially those who’ve suffered deeply. I realize by contrast that narcissists don’t give much of a darn in that regard, but let’s omit them here, OK?

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B.B. Singer has taught at several area colleges.